U.S. patent application number 16/806623 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-25 for inline electromechanical variable transmission system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Oshkosh Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is Oshkosh Corporation. Invention is credited to Eric E. Braun, Andrew J. Kotloski, Jon J. Morrow, David J. Steinberger.
Application Number | 20200200237 16/806623 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61009430 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-25 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200200237 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Steinberger; David J. ; et
al. |
June 25, 2020 |
INLINE ELECTROMECHANICAL VARIABLE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM
Abstract
A drive system includes a first planetary device, a second
planetary device and a connecting shaft directly coupled to the
first planetary device, a first electromagnetic device at least
selectively coupled to the first planetary device and including a
first shaft, a second electromagnetic device directly coupled to
the second planetary device and including a second shaft, a clutch
positioned to selectively rotationally couple the second shaft to
the connecting shaft, and an output shaft coupled to the first
planetary device. The first planetary device, the second planetary
device, the connecting shaft, the first shaft, the second shaft,
and the output shaft are radially aligned. The connecting shaft
extends through the second planetary device to the first planetary
device. The second electromagnetic device is rotationally engaged
with the first planetary device when the clutch is engaged.
Inventors: |
Steinberger; David J.;
(Oshkosh, WI) ; Morrow; Jon J.; (Oshkosh, WI)
; Kotloski; Andrew J.; (Oshkosh, WI) ; Braun; Eric
E.; (Oshkosh, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Oshkosh Corporation |
Oshkosh |
WI |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Oshkosh Corporation
Oshkosh
WI
|
Family ID: |
61009430 |
Appl. No.: |
16/806623 |
Filed: |
March 2, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15725154 |
Oct 4, 2017 |
10578195 |
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16806623 |
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15698415 |
Sep 7, 2017 |
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15725154 |
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15693176 |
Aug 31, 2017 |
10584775 |
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15698415 |
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14918221 |
Oct 20, 2015 |
10421350 |
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15693176 |
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15595511 |
May 15, 2017 |
10029555 |
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14918221 |
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14792532 |
Jul 6, 2015 |
9650032 |
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15595511 |
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14624285 |
Feb 17, 2015 |
9651120 |
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14792532 |
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15595443 |
May 15, 2017 |
9970515 |
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15693176 |
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14624285 |
Feb 17, 2015 |
9651120 |
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15595443 |
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15601670 |
May 22, 2017 |
9908520 |
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15693176 |
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14792535 |
Jul 6, 2015 |
9656659 |
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15601670 |
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14624285 |
Feb 17, 2015 |
9651120 |
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14792535 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16H 3/727 20130101;
B60K 2006/381 20130101; F16H 2200/2007 20130101; F16H 3/728
20130101; Y10S 903/917 20130101; B60K 6/387 20130101; F16H
2200/2041 20130101; Y02T 10/6239 20130101; B60K 6/442 20130101;
B60K 6/445 20130101; Y10S 903/911 20130101; B60K 6/365 20130101;
Y02T 10/62 20130101; F16H 2200/2043 20130101; F16H 2037/0873
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F16H 3/72 20060101
F16H003/72; B60K 6/365 20060101 B60K006/365; B60K 6/442 20060101
B60K006/442; B60K 6/445 20060101 B60K006/445; B60K 6/387 20060101
B60K006/387 |
Claims
1. A drive system for a vehicle, comprising: a first planetary
device; a second planetary device directly coupled to the first
planetary device; a connecting shaft directly coupled to the first
planetary device, wherein the first planetary device, the second
planetary device, and the connecting shaft are radially aligned; a
first electromagnetic device at least selectively coupled to the
first planetary device, wherein the first electromagnetic device
includes a first shaft; a second electromagnetic device directly
coupled to the second planetary device, wherein the second
electromagnetic device includes a second shaft, wherein the first
shaft and the second shaft are radially aligned with the first
planetary device, the second planetary device, and the connecting
shaft, and wherein the connecting shaft extends through the second
planetary device to the first planetary device; a clutch positioned
to selectively rotationally couple the second shaft to the
connecting shaft, wherein the second electromagnetic device is
rotationally engaged with the first planetary device when the
clutch is engaged; and an output shaft coupled to the first
planetary device, wherein the output shaft is radially aligned with
the first planetary device, the second planetary device, and the
connecting shaft.
2. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the first planetary device
is configured to vary a speed ratio between an input to the first
planetary device and an output from the first planetary device.
3. The drive system of claim 1, the clutch defining a first clutch,
further comprising a second clutch positioned to selectively
rotationally couple the first shaft of the first electromagnetic
device to a power takeoff output when engaged.
4. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the connecting shaft
extends through the second electromagnetic device.
5. The drive system of claim 1, further comprising an auxiliary
shaft radially offset from the connecting shaft and the output
shaft, wherein the auxiliary shaft is rotationally coupled to the
first planetary device.
6. The drive system of claim 5, the clutch defining a first clutch,
further comprising a second clutch positioned to selectively
rotationally couple the second planetary device to the auxiliary
shaft when engaged.
7. The drive system of claim 6, further comprising a brake
positioned to selectively limit rotation of a portion of the second
planetary device when engaged.
8. The drive system of claim 1, wherein the output shaft is
directly coupled to the first planetary device.
9. The drive system of claim 8, wherein the output shaft extends
away from the first planetary device and through the first
electromagnetic device.
10. A drive system for a vehicle, comprising: a first planetary
device including a first rotatable portion, a second rotatable
portion, at least one connecting member coupling the first
rotatable portion to the second rotatable portion, and a first
carrier rotationally supporting the at least one connecting member;
a second planetary device including a second carrier, wherein the
first carrier is directly coupled to the second carrier; a first
electromagnetic device at least selectively coupled to the first
planetary device; a second electromagnetic device coupled to the
second planetary device; and an output shaft directly coupled to
the first carrier, wherein the output shaft is configured to
transport power from the first electromagnetic device and the
second electromagnetic device to a tractive element of the vehicle;
and wherein the output shaft is aligned with the first
electromagnetic device and the second electromagnetic device.
11. The drive system of claim 10, wherein the at least one
connecting member is repositionable relative to the first carrier
such that a speed ratio between one of the first rotatable portion,
the second rotatable portion, and the first carrier and another of
the first rotatable portion, the second rotatable portion, and the
first carrier is variable.
12. The drive system of claim 11, wherein the at least one
connecting member is at least one of a ball, a disc, and a wheel
configured to frictionally engage the first rotatable portion and
the second rotatable portion.
13. The drive system of claim 10, further comprising a clutch
positioned to selectively rotationally couple the first
electromagnetic device to a power takeoff output when engaged.
14. The drive system of claim 13, the clutch defining a first
clutch, further comprising a second clutch positioned to
selectively rotationally couple the first rotatable portion to the
first electromagnetic device when engaged, and wherein the second
electromagnetic device is directly coupled to a sun gear of the
second planetary device.
15. The drive system of claim 10, further comprising a clutch
positioned to selectively rotationally couple the second
electromagnetic device to the second rotatable portion when
engaged.
16. The drive system of claim 10, further comprising a brake
positioned to selectively limit rotation of the second planetary
device when engaged.
17. A vehicle, comprising: a multi-mode transmission including: a
first planetary device and a second planetary device, the first
planetary device including a carrier, wherein the carrier and the
second planetary device are directly coupled; a first
motor/generator at least selectively coupled to the first planetary
device; a second motor/generator coupled to the second planetary
device; and an output shaft directly coupled to the carrier of the
first planetary device and configured to selectively receive
rotational mechanical energy from the first motor/generator and the
second motor/generator; and a drive axle coupled to the output
shaft of the multi-mode transmission.
18. The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the first planetary device is
configured to vary a speed ratio between an input to the first
planetary device and an output from the first planetary device.
19. The vehicle of claim 17, further comprising a clutch positioned
to selectively couple the first motor/generator to a power takeoff
output when engaged.
20. The vehicle of claim 19, further comprising a brake, wherein
the second planetary device includes a ring gear, wherein the brake
is positioned to selectively limit rotation of the ring gear when
engaged.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/725,154, filed Oct. 4, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part
of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/698,415, filed Sep. 7, 2017, which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/693,176,
filed Aug. 31, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of: U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/918,221, filed Oct. 20, 2015, now U.S. Pat.
No. 10,421,350; U.S. application Ser. No. 15/595,443, filed May 15,
2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,970,515, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/624,285, filed Feb. 17, 2015, now U.S. Pat.
No. 9,651,120; U.S. application Ser. No. 15/595,511, filed May 15,
2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,029,555, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/792,532, filed Jul. 6, 2015, now U.S. Pat.
No. 9,650,032, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application
Ser. No. 14/624,285, filed Feb. 17, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No.
9,651,120; and U.S. application Ser. No. 15/601,670, filed May 22,
2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,908,520, which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/792,535, filed Jul. 6, 2015, now U.S. Pat.
No. 9,656,659, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application
Ser. No. 14/624,285, filed Feb. 17, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No.
9,651,120, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in
their entireties.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Internal combustion engine vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and
electric vehicles, among other types of vehicles, include
transmissions. Traditional vehicle transmissions use gears and gear
trains to provide speed and torque conversions from a rotating
power source (e.g., an engine, a motor, etc.) to another device
(e.g., a drive shaft, wheels of a vehicle, etc.). Transmissions
include multiple gear ratios selectively coupled to the rotating
power source with a mechanism. The mechanism may also selectively
couple an output to the various gear ratios.
SUMMARY
[0003] One exemplary embodiment relates to a drive system for a
vehicle. The drive system includes a first planetary device, a
second planetary device directly coupled to the first planetary
device, a connecting shaft directly coupled to the first planetary
device, a first electromagnetic device at least selectively coupled
to the first planetary device and including a first shaft, a second
electromagnetic device directly coupled to the second planetary
device and including a second shaft, a clutch positioned to
selectively rotationally couple the second shaft to the connecting
shaft, and an output shaft coupled to the first planetary device.
The first planetary device, the second planetary device, and the
connecting shaft are radially aligned. The first shaft and the
second shaft are radially aligned with the first planetary device,
the second planetary device, and the connecting shaft. The
connecting shaft extends through the second planetary device to the
first planetary device. The second electromagnetic device is
rotationally engaged with the first planetary device when the
clutch is engaged. The output shaft is radially aligned with the
first planetary device, the second planetary device, and the
connecting shaft.
[0004] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a drive system for a
vehicle. The drive system includes a first planetary device, a
second planetary device, a first electromagnetic device at least
selectively coupled to the first planetary device, a second
electromagnetic device coupled to the second planetary device, and
an output shaft. The first planetary device includes a first
rotatable portion, a second rotatable portion, at least one
connecting member coupling the first rotatable portion to the
second rotatable portion, and a first carrier rotationally
supporting the at least one connecting member. The second planetary
device includes a second carrier that is directly coupled to the
first carrier. The output shaft is directly coupled to the first
carrier and configured to transport power from the first
electromagnetic device and the second electromagnetic device to a
tractive element of the vehicle. The output shaft is aligned with
the first electromagnetic device and the second electromagnetic
device.
[0005] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a vehicle including
a multi-mode transmission and a drive axle. The multi-mode
transmission includes a first planetary device and a second
planetary device, the first planetary device including a carrier, a
first motor/generator at least selectively coupled to the first
planetary device, a second motor/generator coupled to the second
planetary device, and an output shaft directly coupled to the
carrier of the first planetary device and configured to selectively
receive rotational mechanical energy from the first motor/generator
and the second motor/generator. The carrier and the second
planetary device are directly coupled. The drive axle is coupled to
the output shaft of the multi-mode transmission.
[0006] The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being
carried out in various ways. Alternative exemplary embodiments
relate to other features and combinations of features as may be
recited herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The disclosure will become more fully understood from the
following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the
accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like
elements, in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle having a drive
train, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 2A is a detailed schematic view of the drive train of
FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 2B is a partial schematic view of the drive train of
FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0011] FIG. 2C is a partial schematic view of the drive train of
FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a control system for the
drive train of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a neutral/startup mode of operation, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a neutral/startup mode of operation, according to
another exemplary embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a low range mode of operation, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 7 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a mid range mode of operation, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 8 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a high range mode of operation, according to an
exemplary embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 9 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in an intermediate shift mode of operation, according to
an exemplary embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a low speed reverse mode of operation, according to
an exemplary embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 11 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a mid speed reverse mode of operation, according to
an exemplary embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 12 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in a power generation mode of operation, according to an
exemplary embodiment; and
[0022] FIG. 13 is a detailed schematic view of a drive train
configured in an electric PTO mode of operation, according to an
exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the
exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the
present application is not limited to the details or methodology
set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It
should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose
of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment, a multi-mode inline
electromechanical variable transmission is provided as part of a
vehicle and is selectively reconfigurable between a plurality of
operating modes. The vehicle may also include an engine and one or
more tractive elements (e.g., wheel and tire assemblies, etc.). The
multi-mode inline electromechanical variable transmission may
include a first electromagnetic device and a second electromagnetic
device. In one embodiment, at least one of the first
electromagnetic device and the second electromagnetic device
provides rotational mechanical energy to start the engine. In
another embodiment, the engine provides a rotational mechanical
energy input to both the first and second electromagnetic devices
such that each operates as a generator to generate electrical
energy. In still other embodiments, one of the first
electromagnetic device and the second electromagnetic device are
configured to receive a rotational mechanical energy output from
the engine and provide an electrical energy output to power a
control system and/or the other electromagnetic device. In yet
other embodiments, at least one of the first electromagnetic device
and the second electromagnetic device are configured to receive an
electrical energy input and provide a mechanical energy output to
another part of the transmission (e.g., a power takeoff output).
According to an exemplary embodiment, the multi-mode inline
electromechanical variable transmission has a compact design that
facilitates direct replacement of traditional inline transmissions
(e.g., mechanical transmissions, transmissions without
electromagnetic devices, etc.) used in front engine applications.
Thus, the multi-mode inline electromechanical variable transmission
may be installed during a new vehicle construction or installed to
replace a conventional transmission of a front engine vehicle
(e.g., as opposed to replacing a traditional midship transfer case,
etc.). The multi-mode inline electromechanical variable
transmission may additionally or alternatively be installed as part
of a rear-engine vehicle (e.g., a bus, etc.).
[0025] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-2A, a
vehicle 10 includes an engine 20 coupled to a transmission, shown
as transmission 30. In one embodiment, engine 20 is configured to
combust fuel and provide a mechanical energy input to transmission
30. By way of example, engine 20 may be configured to provide a
rotational mechanical energy input to transmission 30. As shown in
FIGS. 1-2A, transmission 30 includes a first electrical machine,
electromagnetic device, and/or motor/generator, shown as first
electromagnetic device 40, and a second electrical machine,
electromagnetic device, and/or motor/generator, shown as second
electromagnetic device 50. According to an exemplary embodiment,
vehicle 10 is configured as a rear engine vehicle and transmission
30 is configured as a multi-mode inline electromechanical
transmission. In other embodiments, vehicle 10 is configured as a
mid-engine vehicle or a front engine vehicle.
[0026] Referring again to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1,
vehicle 10 includes a front axle, shown as front axle 60, and a
rear axle, shown as rear axle 70. As shown in FIG. 1, front axle 60
includes a pair of tractive elements, shown as tires 62, coupled to
a front differential, shown as front differential 64. Rear axle 70
includes a pair of tractive elements, shown as tires 72, coupled to
a rear differential, shown as rear differential 74, according to an
exemplary embodiment. According to the exemplary embodiment shown
in FIG. 1, front differential 64 is coupled to transmission 30 with
a front axle driveshaft 66, and rear differential 74 is coupled to
transmission 30 with a rear axle driveshaft 76. While shown as
coupled to tires 62 and tires 72, front differential 64 and rear
differential 74 may be coupled to various other types of tractive
elements (e.g., tracks, etc.), according to alternative
embodiments. As shown in FIG. 1, front axle driveshaft 66 and rear
axle driveshaft 76 are configured to transport power from first
electromagnetic device 40, second electromagnetic device 50, and
engine 20 to tires 62 and tires 72, respectively. Vehicle 10 may
include a plurality of front differentials 64 that may be coupled
and/or a plurality of rear differentials 74 that may be coupled,
according to various alternative embodiments. In some embodiments,
transmission 30 is selectively coupled (e.g., via a clutch
mechanism, coupling mechanism, etc.) to at least one of the front
axle driveshaft 66 and the rear axle driveshaft 76 (e.g., to
reconfigure vehicle 10 into a front-wheel-drive configuration, a
rear-wheel-drive configuration, an all-wheel-drive configuration, a
four-wheel-drive configuration, etc.).
[0027] Engine 20 may be any source of rotational mechanical energy
that is derived from a stored energy source. The stored energy
source is disposed onboard vehicle 10, according to an exemplary
embodiment. The stored energy source may include a liquid fuel or a
gaseous fuel, among other alternatives. In one embodiment, engine
20 includes an internal combustion engine configured to be powered
by at least one of gasoline, natural gas, and diesel fuel.
According to various alternative embodiments, engine 20 includes at
least one of a turbine, a fuel cell, and an electric motor, or
still another device. According to one exemplary embodiment, engine
20 includes a twelve liter diesel engine capable of providing
between approximately 400 horsepower and approximately 600
horsepower and between approximately 400 foot pounds of torque and
approximately 2000 foot pounds of torque. In one embodiment, engine
20 has a rotational speed (e.g., a rotational operational range,
etc.) of between 0 and 2,100 revolutions per minute. Engine 20 may
be operated at a relatively constant speed (e.g., 1,600 revolutions
per minute, etc.). In one embodiment, the relatively constant speed
is selected based on an operating condition of engine 20 (e.g., an
operating speed relating to a point of increased fuel efficiency,
etc.).
[0028] In one embodiment, at least one of first electromagnetic
device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50 provide a mechanical
energy input to another portion of transmission 30. By way of
example, at least one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50 may be configured to provide a rotational
mechanical energy input to another portion of transmission 30
(i.e., at least one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50 may operate as a motor, etc.). At least
one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic
device 50 may receive a mechanical energy output from at least one
of engine 20 and another portion of transmission 30. By way of
example, at least one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50 may be configured to receive a rotational
mechanical energy output from at least one of engine 20 and another
portion of transmission 30 and provide an electrical energy output
(i.e., at least one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50 may operate as a generator, etc.).
According to an exemplary embodiment, first electromagnetic device
40 and second electromagnetic device 50 are capable of both
providing mechanical energy and converting a mechanical energy
input into an electrical energy output (i.e., selectively operate
as a motor and a generator, etc.). The operational condition of
first electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device
50 (e.g., as a motor, as a generator, etc.) may vary based on a
mode of operation associated with transmission 30.
[0029] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, a
drive system for a vehicle, shown as drive system 100, includes
engine 20, transmission 30, first electromagnetic device 40, and
second electromagnetic device 50. Transmission 30 may include first
electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50. As
shown in FIG. 2A, transmission 30 includes a first power
transmission device, shown as power split 110, and a second power
transmission device, shown as output planetary 120. In one
embodiment, power split 110 and output planetary 120 are positioned
outside of (e.g., on either side of, sandwiching, not between,
etc.) first electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic
device 50. As shown in FIG. 2A, power split 110 and output
planetary 120 are disposed between (e.g., sandwiched by, etc.)
first electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device
50.
[0030] Referring to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A-2C,
power split 110 is a power transmission device. In some
embodiments, power split 110 is a variable ratio power transmission
device or variator configured to vary a ratio (e.g., a torque
ratio, a gear ratio, a speed ratio, etc.) between an input to power
split 110 and an output from power split 110. In other embodiments,
such ratios are fixed. An input is a rotational mechanical energy
input having an input speed and an input torque. An output is a
rotational mechanical energy output having an output speed and an
output torque. Power split 110 may have various arrangements (e.g.,
an epicyclic or planetary arrangement, a radially offset
arrangement, etc.). Power split 110 may utilize various types of
variator configurations. By way of example, power split 110 may be
a belt and/or a chain variator (e.g., include one or more belts or
chains rotationally coupling variable diameter pulleys, etc.). In
such an example, varying the pulley diameters may adjust the
relative speeds between various components within power split 110.
Such a belt variator and/or a chain variator may be a planetary
device.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 2A, power split 110 includes an inner
portion 111 that is shown according to various exemplary
embodiments in FIGS. 2B and 2C. In FIGS. 2B and 2C, power split 110
is an epicyclic device or planetary device that includes a first
rotatable portion 112, a second rotatable portion 114, and one or
more adjustable members or connecting members 116 each configured
to rotate about a corresponding axis 117. The connecting members
116 engage (e.g., rotationally) both first rotatable portion 112
and second rotatable portion 114, thereby coupling first rotatable
portion 112 to second rotatable portion 114, according to an
exemplary embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, a carrier 118
rotationally supports connecting members 116 such that each
connecting member 116 rotates relative to carrier 118 about the
corresponding axis 117. In some embodiments, connecting members 116
are selectively repositionable such that axes 117 rotate relative
to carrier 118. As the orientations of connecting members 116
change relative to carrier 118, connecting members 116 may engage
first rotatable portion 112 and second rotatable portion 114 at
different locations, varying the speed ratios between first
rotatable portion 112, second rotatable portion 114, and carrier
118. Each of first rotatable portion 112, second rotatable portion
114, and carrier 118 may receive an input or provide an output
depending on the configuration of vehicle 10.
[0032] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, power split 110 is an
epicyclic or planetary device configured as a friction ball
variator. In this embodiment, connecting members 116 are balls
(e.g., spheres, etc.) that are rotatable relative to carrier 118
about axes 117. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, power split 110
is shown to include two connecting members 116, however, power
split 110 may include more or fewer connecting members 116 (e.g.,
1, 3, 4, 10, etc.). The first rotatable portion 112 and second
rotatable portion 114 each include an engagement surface that
extends along a circular path and is configured to engage
connecting members 116 (e.g., through friction, etc.). Accordingly,
first rotatable portion 112 is rotationally engaged with second
rotatable portion 114 through connecting members 116. Each
connecting member 116 is configured to rotate relative to carrier
118 about an axis 117 in response to a rotational mechanical energy
input (e.g., through first rotatable portion 112, through second
rotatable portion 114, through carrier 118, etc.).
[0033] In some embodiments, axes 117 are fixed (e.g., permanently,
selectively, etc.) relative to carrier 118. In other embodiments,
to facilitate varying speed ratios between inputs to power split
110 and outputs from power split 110, each axis 117 is rotatable
relative to carrier 118 (e.g., such that axis 117 rotates about an
axis extending perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 2B). Connecting
members 116 may have a curved profile such that rotating the axes
117 of connecting members 116 varies the ratios between the speed
of first rotatable portion 112, the speed of second rotatable
portion 114, and the speed of carrier 118. Rotating the axis 117
corresponding to one of the connecting members 116 in a first
direction both (a) reduces the distance between that axis 117 and
the point where first rotatable portion 112 engages that connecting
member 116 and (b) increases the distance between that axis 117 and
the point where second rotatable portion 114 engages that
connecting member 116. In one such arrangement, with carrier 118
held fixed, first rotatable portion 112 rotates more slowly than
second rotatable portion 114. Rotating the axis 117 in the opposite
direction may have the opposite effect. In some embodiments, the
axes 117 are rotationally coupled such that they rotate in
unison.
[0034] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2C, power split 110 is an
epicyclic or planetary device configured as a toroidal variator. In
this embodiment, each connecting member 116 is a wheel or disc that
is rotatable relative to carrier 118. In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 2C, power split 110 is shown to include two connecting members
116, however, power split 110 may include more or fewer connecting
members 116 (e.g., 1, 3, 4, 10, etc.). The first rotatable portion
112 and second rotatable portion 114 each include a toroidal
engagement surface that is configured to engage connecting members
116 (e.g., through friction, etc.). Accordingly, first rotatable
portion 112 is rotationally engaged with second rotatable portion
114 through connecting members 116. Each connecting member 116 is
configured to rotate relative to carrier 118 about an axis 117 in
response to a rotational mechanical energy input (e.g., through
first rotatable portion 112, through second rotatable portion 114,
through carrier 118, etc.).
[0035] In some embodiments, axes 117 are fixed relative to carrier
118. In other embodiments, to facilitate varying speed ratios
between inputs to power split 110 and outputs from power split 110,
each axis 117 is rotatable relative to carrier 118 (e.g., such that
axis 117 rotates about an axis extending perpendicular to the plane
of FIG. 2C). To facilitate continuous engagement between connecting
members 116, first rotatable portion 112, and second rotatable
portion 114 as the axis 117 rotates, the toroidal engagement
surfaces may be concave with a constant radius cross sectional
curvature. In such embodiments, rotating the axes 117 varies the
ratios between the speed of first rotatable portion 112, the speed
of second rotatable portion 114, and the speed of carrier 118.
Rotating the axis 117 corresponding to one of the connecting
members 116 in a first direction both (a) increases the radius
between the axis of rotation of first rotatable portion 112 and the
point where that connecting member 116 engages first rotatable
portion 112 and (b) decreases the radius between the axis of
rotation of second rotatable portion 114 and the point where that
connecting member 116 engages second rotatable portion 114. In one
such arrangement, with carrier 118 held fixed, first rotatable
portion 112 rotates more slowly than second rotatable portion 114.
Rotating the axis 117 in the opposite direction has the opposite
effect. In some embodiments, the axes 117 are rotationally coupled
such that they rotate in unison.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, power split 110 includes an adjustment
mechanism or actuator, shown as variator adjustment mechanism 119.
The variator adjustment mechanism 119 is configured to rotate axes
117 relative to carrier 118 or otherwise vary speed ratios between
inputs to power split 110 and outputs from power split 110. The
variator adjustment mechanism 119 may be a hydraulic actuator, a
pneumatic actuator, an electric motor, or another type of actuator
that is controlled by another component (e.g., controller 210).
Alternatively, the variator adjustment mechanism 119 may be
controlled passively (e.g., using a flyweight system). By way of
example, the variator adjustment mechanism 119 may include a spring
loaded flyweight coupled to a component of power split 110 (e.g.,
carrier 118) such that variator adjustment mechanism 119 varies the
orientation of axes 117 based on a rotational speed of the
component. In other embodiments, axes 117 are fixed relative to
carrier 118, and variator adjustment mechanism 119 is omitted.
[0037] Referring again to FIG. 2A, a clutch, shown as neutral
clutch 22, is positioned to selectively couple first
electromagnetic device 40 to first rotatable portion 112. Neutral
clutch 22 may be a component of first electromagnetic device 40 or
transmission 30 or a separate component. Accordingly, first
electromagnetic device 40 is selectively coupled to first rotatable
portion 112 such that power split 110 is selectively coupled to
first electromagnetic device 40. By way of example, first
electromagnetic device 40 may include or be coupled to a shaft
(e.g., a first shaft, an input shaft, an output shaft, etc.)
selectively coupled to first rotatable portion 112. According to an
alternative embodiment, neutral clutch 22 is omitted, and first
electromagnetic device 40 is directly coupled to first rotatable
portion 112.
[0038] Referring still to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.
2A, output planetary 120 is a planetary device or planetary gear
set that includes a sun gear 122, a ring gear 124, and a plurality
of planetary gears 126. The plurality of planetary gears 126 couple
sun gear 122 to ring gear 124, according to an exemplary
embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2A, a carrier 128 rotationally
supports the plurality of planetary gears 126. In one embodiment,
second electromagnetic device 50 is directly coupled to sun gear
122 such that output planetary 120 is coupled to second
electromagnetic device 50. By way of example, second
electromagnetic device 50 may include or be coupled to a shaft
(e.g., a second shaft, an input shaft, an output shaft, etc.)
directly coupled to sun gear 122. Carrier 118 is directly coupled
to carrier 128, thereby coupling power split 110 to output
planetary 120, according to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.
2A. In one embodiment, directly coupling carrier 118 to carrier 128
synchronizes the rotational speeds of carrier 118 and carrier
128.
[0039] Carrier 118 is directly rotationally coupled to an output
with a shaft, shown as output shaft 32, according to the exemplary
embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2C. Output shaft 32 may be coupled to
at least one of rear axle driveshaft 76 and front axle driveshaft
66. By way of example, output shaft 32 may be coupled to a transfer
case and/or rear axle driveshaft 76 where transmission 30 is
installed in place of a traditional, mechanical, straight-thru
transmission. In another embodiment, the output is a PTO output,
and output shaft 32 is coupled thereto. A clutch assembly may be
engaged and disengaged to selectively couple at least one of front
axle driveshaft 66, a transfer case, and rear axle driveshaft 76 to
output shaft 32 of transmission 30 (e.g., to facilitate operation
of a vehicle in a rear-wheel-drive mode, an all-wheel-drive mode, a
four-wheel-drive mode, a front-wheel-drive mode, etc.). As shown in
FIG. 2A, the transmission 30 includes an auxiliary shaft, shown as
jack shaft 34. In some embodiments, jack shaft 34 is offset (e.g.,
radially offset) from first electromagnetic device 40, second
electromagnetic device 50, power split 110, and/or output planetary
120. As shown in FIG. 2A, transmission 30 includes a shaft, shown
as connecting shaft 36, directly coupled to engine 20. According to
an exemplary embodiment, connecting shaft 36 directly couples
engine 20 to power split 110. In one embodiment, connecting shaft
36 directly couples engine 20 with second rotatable portion 114 of
power split 110. According to an exemplary embodiment, power split
110 is at least one of directly coupled to and directly powers a
power takeoff ("PTO") (e.g., a live PTO, etc.). By way of example,
second rotatable portion 114 and/or carrier 118 of power split 110
may be at least one of directly coupled to and directly power the
PTO.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2A, transmission 30 includes a first
clutch, shown as input coupled clutch 140. Input coupled clutch 140
is positioned to selectively couple second electromagnetic device
50 with engine 20, according to an exemplary embodiment. Input
coupled clutch 140 may thereby selectively couple engine 20 to
output planetary 120. As shown in FIG. 2A, connecting shaft 36
extends from engine 20, through input coupled clutch 140 and second
electromagnetic device 50, and through output planetary 120 to
power split 110. Input coupled clutch 140 may selectively couple
second electromagnetic device 50 with connecting shaft 36.
Accordingly, input coupled clutch 140 may selectively couple
connecting shaft 36 to sun gear 122 of output planetary 120.
According to an exemplary embodiment, first electromagnetic device
40 and second electromagnetic device 50 (e.g., input/output shafts
thereof, etc.) are aligned (e.g., radially aligned, etc.) with
power split 110, output planetary 120, connecting shaft 36, and/or
output shaft 32 (e.g., axes of rotation of components thereof are
aligned, centerlines thereof are aligned, to thereby form a
straight-thru or inline transmission arrangement, etc.).
[0041] Jack shaft 34 is rotationally coupled to carrier 118 of
power split 110 and thereby to output shaft 32. According to the
exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, transmission 30 further
includes a second clutch, shown as output coupled clutch 150.
Output coupled clutch 150 is positioned to selectively couple jack
shaft 34 to ring gear 124 of output planetary 120. In some
embodiments, jack shaft 34 is rotationally coupled (e.g.,
selectively rotationally coupled, etc.) to one or more outputs,
shown as PTO outputs 80 (e.g., to drive one or more hydraulic
pumps, to power one or more hydraulic systems, to power one or more
electrical power generation systems, to power one or more pneumatic
systems, etc.). In other embodiments, the one or more outputs are
used to power (e.g., drive, etc.) a vehicle with which transmission
30 is associated.
[0042] Transmission 30 may further include a third clutch, shown in
FIG. 2A as secondary output clutch 42. In other embodiments,
secondary output clutch 42 is omitted. Secondary output clutch 42
is positioned to selectively couple first electromagnetic device 40
with an additional PTO output 80, according to an exemplary
embodiment. Like the PTO outputs 80 rotationally coupled to the
jack shaft 34, the PTO output 80 coupled to the secondary output
clutch 42 may be configured to drive one or more hydraulic pumps,
to power one or more hydraulic systems, to power one or more
electrical power generation systems, to power one or more pneumatic
systems, or to power another type of system. In other embodiments,
the output is used to power (e.g., drive, etc.) a vehicle with
which transmission 30 is associated. Secondary output clutch 42 may
thereby selectively couple this PTO output 80 to first rotatable
portion 112 of power split 110 when neutral clutch 22 is engaged.
The PTO output 80 may be directly coupled to the secondary output
clutch 42 (e.g., arranged concentrically or in line with the
secondary output clutch 42 and the first electromagnetic device 40,
including gear teeth in meshing engagement with the secondary
output clutch 42, etc.) or indirectly coupled to the secondary
output clutch 42 (e.g., using a gear train, using a pulley and belt
arrangement, using a chain and sprocket arrangement, etc.). As
shown in FIG. 2A, output shaft 32 extends from power split 110,
through first electromagnetic device 40, and out through secondary
output clutch 42.
[0043] In some embodiments, neutral clutch 22 is biased into an
engaged position (e.g., with a spring, etc.) and selectively
disengaged (e.g., with application of pressurized hydraulic fluid,
etc.). In some embodiments, input coupled clutch 140 is biased into
a disengaged position (e.g., with a spring, etc.) and selectively
engaged (e.g., with application of pressurized hydraulic fluid,
etc.). In some embodiments, output coupled clutch 150 is biased
into a disengaged position (e.g., with a spring, etc.) and
selectively engaged (e.g., with application of pressurized
hydraulic fluid, etc.). In some embodiments, secondary output
clutch 42 is biased into a disengaged position (e.g., with a
spring, etc.) and selectively engaged (e.g., with application of
pressurized hydraulic fluid, etc.). In other embodiments, one or
more of neutral clutch 22, input coupled clutch 140, output coupled
clutch 150, and secondary output clutch 42 are hydraulically-biased
and spring released.
[0044] Referring again to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG.
2A, transmission 30 includes a brake, shown as output brake 170.
Output brake 170 is positioned to selectively inhibit the movement
of at least a portion of output planetary 120 (e.g., ring gear 124,
etc.), according to an exemplary embodiment. In one embodiment,
output brake 170 is biased into a disengaged position (e.g., with a
spring, etc.) and selectively engaged (e.g., with application of
pressurized hydraulic fluid, etc.). In other embodiments, output
brake 170 is hydraulically-biased and spring released. In still
other embodiments, the components of transmission 30 are still
otherwise engaged and disengaged (e.g., pneumatically, etc.). By
way of example, output brake 170 and output coupled clutch 150 may
be engaged simultaneously, providing a driveline brake such that
rotational movement of at least one of output planetary 120 (e.g.,
ring gear 124, etc.), power split 110 (e.g., carrier 118, etc.),
jack shaft 34, and output shaft 32 are selectively limited.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 2A, transmission 30 includes a gear set 180
that couples carrier 118 and carrier 128 to jack shaft 34. In one
embodiment, gear set 180 includes a first gear, shown as gear 182,
in meshing engagement with a second gear, shown as gear 184. As
shown in FIG. 2A, gear 182 is rotatably coupled to carrier 118 and
carrier 128. By way of example, gear 182 may be fixed to a
component (e.g., shaft, tube, etc.) that couples carrier 118 and
carrier 128. As shown in FIG. 2A, gear 184 is rotatably coupled to
jack shaft 34. By way of example, gear 184 may be fixed directly to
the jack shaft 34.
[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment, transmission 30
includes a gear set, shown as gear set 190, that couples output
planetary 120 to jack shaft 34. As shown in FIG. 2A, gear set 190
includes a first gear, shown as gear 192, coupled to ring gear 124
of output planetary 120. Gear 192 is in meshing engagement with a
second gear, shown as gear 194, according to an exemplary
embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2A, gear 194 is coupled to a third
gear, shown as gear 196. Gear 194 may reverse the rotation
direction of an output provided by gear 192 (e.g., gear 194 may
facilitate rotating jack shaft 34 in the same direction as that of
gear 192, etc.). In other embodiments, gear 192 is directly coupled
with gear 196. By way of example, gear set 190 may not include gear
194, and gear 192 may be directly coupled to (e.g., in meshing
engagement with, etc.) gear 196. As shown in FIG. 2A, output
coupled clutch 150 is positioned to selectively couple gear 196
with output shaft 32 when engaged. With output coupled clutch 150
disengaged, relative movement (e.g., rotation, etc.) may occur
between gear 196 and jack shaft 34. By way of example, output
coupled clutch 150 may be engaged to couple ring gear 124 to jack
shaft 34. Output brake 170 is positioned to selectively limit the
movement of gear 192 when engaged to thereby also limit the
movement of ring gear 124, gear 194, and gear 196.
[0047] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a
control system 200 for a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 10, etc.) includes
a controller 210. In one embodiment, controller 210 is configured
to selectively engage, selectively disengage, or otherwise
communicate with components of the vehicle according to various
modes of operation. As shown in FIG. 3, controller 210 is coupled
to engine 20. In one embodiment, controller 210 is configured to
selectively engage engine 20 (e.g., interface with a throttle
thereof, etc.) such that an output of engine 20 rotates at a target
rate. Controller 210 is coupled to first electromagnetic device 40
and second electromagnetic device 50, according to an exemplary
embodiment, and may send and receive signals therewith. By way of
example, controller 210 may send command signals relating to at
least one of a target mode of operation, a target rotational speed,
and a target rotation direction for first electromagnetic device 40
and second electromagnetic device 50. As shown in FIG. 3, first
electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50 are
electrically coupled (e.g., by an electrical power transmission
system, etc.). By way of example, power generated by first
electromagnetic device 40 may be utilized by second electromagnetic
device 50 (e.g., to provide an output torque as a motor, etc.), or
power generated by second electromagnetic device 50 may be utilized
by first electromagnetic device 40 (e.g., to provide an output
torque as a motor, etc.). Controller 210 is configured to
selectively engage and selectively disengage neutral clutch 22,
secondary output clutch 42, input coupled clutch 140, output
coupled clutch 150, and output brake 170 directly or by interacting
with another component (e.g., a pump, a valve, a solenoid, a motor,
etc.).
[0048] In some embodiments, controller 210 is configured to control
variator adjustment mechanism 119 to selectively vary speed ratios
between inputs to power split 110 and outputs from power split 110.
Controller 210 may control the variator adjustment mechanism 119 in
response to a user input (e.g., through the user interface 220) or
automatically (e.g., in response to a sensor input, according to a
predefined actuation profile, etc.). Alternatively, variator
adjustment mechanism 119 may operate independently such that
controller 210 may be operatively decoupled from variator
adjustment mechanism 119 (e.g., if variator adjustment mechanism
119 is controlled passively with a flyweight system).
[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, the drive system 100
includes an energy storage device (e.g., a battery, etc.). In such
embodiments, the battery may be charged and recharged by an
electromagnetic device that is generating power. The battery may
supply the electromagnetic device that is motoring the vehicle to
at least one of propel the vehicle and operate a PTO output 80. In
some embodiments, the battery may always be utilized as part of the
drive system 100. In other embodiments, the battery may be used
only when excess generated power must be stored or excess power is
required to motor the vehicle.
[0050] According to alternative embodiments, drive system 100 may
be configured to operate with first electromagnetic device 40 and
second electromagnetic device 50, and no additional sources of
electrical power. Additional sources of electrical power include,
for example, a battery and other energy storage devices. Without an
energy storage device, first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50 may operate in power balance. One of the
electromagnetic devices may provide all of the electrical power
required by the other electromagnetic device (as well as the
electrical power required to offset power losses). First
electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50 may
operate without doing either of (a) providing electrical power to
an energy storage device or (b) consuming electrical power from an
energy storage device. Thus, the sum of the electrical power
produced or consumed by first electromagnetic device 40, the
electrical power produced or consumed by second electromagnetic
device 50, and electrical power losses may be zero. According to
the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, two electromagnetic devices are shown.
In other embodiments, the system includes three or more
electromagnetic devices.
[0051] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3,
control system 200 includes a user interface 220 that is coupled to
controller 210. In one embodiment, user interface 220 includes a
display and an operator input. The display may be configured to
display a graphical user interface, an image, an icon, or still
other information. In one embodiment, the display includes a
graphical user interface configured to provide general information
about the vehicle (e.g., vehicle speed, fuel level, warning lights,
etc.). The graphical user interface may be configured to also
display a current mode of operation, various potential modes of
operation, or still other information relating to transmission 30
and/or drive system 100. By way of example, the graphical user
interface may be configured to provide specific information
regarding the operation of drive system 100 (e.g., whether neutral
clutch 22, secondary output clutch 42, input coupled clutch 140,
output coupled clutch 150, and/or output brake 170 are engaged or
disengaged, a fault condition where at least one of neutral clutch
22, secondary output clutch 42, input coupled clutch 140, output
coupled clutch 150, and/or output brake 170 fail to engage or
disengage in response to a command signal, etc.).
[0052] The operator input may be used by an operator to provide
commands to at least one of engine 20, transmission 30, first
electromagnetic device 40, second electromagnetic device 50, and
drive system 100 or still another component of the vehicle. The
operator input may include one or more buttons, knobs,
touchscreens, switches, levers, or handles. In one embodiment, an
operator may press a button to change the mode of operation for at
least one of transmission 30, and drive system 100, and the
vehicle. The operator may be able to manually control some or all
aspects of the operation of transmission 30 using the display and
the operator input. It should be understood that any type of
display or input controls may be implemented with the systems and
methods described herein.
[0053] Controller 210 may be implemented as a general-purpose
processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one
or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a
digital-signal-processor (DSP), circuits containing one or more
processing components, circuitry for supporting a microprocessor, a
group of processing components, or other suitable electronic
processing components. According to the exemplary embodiment shown
in FIG. 3, controller 210 includes a processing circuit 212 and a
memory 214. Processing circuit 212 may include an ASIC, one or more
FPGAs, a DSP, circuits containing one or more processing
components, circuitry for supporting a microprocessor, a group of
processing components, or other suitable electronic processing
components. In some embodiments, processing circuit 212 is
configured to execute computer code stored in memory 214 to
facilitate the activities described herein. Memory 214 may be any
volatile or non-volatile computer-readable storage medium capable
of storing data or computer code relating to the activities
described herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, memory 214
includes computer code modules (e.g., executable code, object code,
source code, script code, machine code, etc.) configured for
execution by processing circuit 212. Memory 214 includes various
actuation profiles corresponding to modes of operation (e.g., for
transmission 30, for drive system 100, for a vehicle, etc.),
according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments,
controller 210 may represent a collection of processing devices
(e.g., servers, data centers, etc.). In such cases, processing
circuit 212 represents the collective processors of the devices,
and memory 214 represents the collective storage devices of the
devices.
[0054] Referring next to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS.
4-13, transmission 30 is configured to operate according to a
plurality of modes of operation. Various modes of operation for
transmission 30 are identified below in Table 1. In other
embodiments, a vehicle having transmission 30 is configured to
operate according to the various modes of operation shown in FIGS.
4-13 and identified below in Table 1.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Output Input Secondary Neutral Coupled
Output Coupled Output Mode of Clutch Clutch Brake Clutch Clutch
Operation 22 150 170 140 42 Mid Speed X X Reverse Low Speed X X
Reverse Power X X Generation Neutral/Vehicle X X X Start Low Range
X X Mid Range X X Shift X X X High Range X X Electric PTO X
[0055] As shown in Table 1, an "X" represents a component of drive
system 100 (e.g., output brake 170, input coupled clutch 140, etc.)
that is engaged or closed during the respective modes of
operation.
[0056] In each of the modes shown in FIGS. 4-12, neutral clutch 22
is engaged. When engaged, neutral clutch 22 couples first
electromagnetic device 40 to first rotatable portion 112. When
disengaged, neutral clutch 22 decouples first electromagnetic
device 40 from first rotatable portion 112. Accordingly, neutral
clutch 22 may be used to isolate first electromagnetic device 40,
secondary output clutch 42, and the PTO output 80 coupled to
secondary output clutch 42 from transmission 30. With neutral
clutch 22 disengaged, first electromagnetic device 40 may be used
to drive the PTO output 80 coupled to the secondary output clutch
42 independent of engine 20 (e.g., without engine 20 running) and
transmission 30 (e.g., without moving first rotatable portion
112).
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into neutral/startup modes. The neutral/startup mode
may provide a true neutral for transmission 30. In one embodiment,
at least one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50 include and/or are coupled to an energy
storage device (e.g., a capacitor, a battery, etc.) configured to
store energy (e.g., electrical energy, chemical energy, etc.)
associated with drive system 100. In one embodiment, rotation of
first electromagnetic device 40 rotates connecting shaft 36 to
start engine 20 (e.g., with neutral clutch 22, output coupled
clutch 150, and output brake 170 engaged, etc.). In another
embodiment, rotation of second electromagnetic device 50 rotates
connecting shaft 36 to start engine 20 (e.g., with neutral clutch
22 and input coupled clutch 140 engaged, etc.). First
electromagnetic device 40 or second electromagnetic device 50 may
be configured to use the stored energy to start engine 20 by
providing a rotational mechanical energy input (e.g., a torque,
etc.) to engine 20 through connecting shaft 36.
[0058] In an alternative embodiment, engine 20 includes a
traditional starting mechanism (e.g., a starter motor, etc.)
configured to start engine 20 (e.g., in response to a vehicle start
request, in response to an engine start request, etc.). The vehicle
start request and/or the engine start request may include a
directive to turn the engine "on" from an "off" state. The vehicle
may include at least one of a pushbutton, a graphical user
interface, an ignition, and another device with which a user
interacts to provide or trigger the vehicle start request and/or
the engine start request. Engine 20 may provide a rotational
mechanical energy input to at least one of first electromagnetic
device 40 and/or second electromagnetic device 50. First
electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50 may
be brought up to a threshold (e.g., a threshold speed, a threshold
speed for a target period of time, a threshold power generation, a
threshold power generation for a target period of time, etc.) that
establishes a requisite DC bus voltage for controlling first
electromagnetic device 40 and/or second electromagnetic device 50.
Both first electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic
device 50 may thereafter be activated and controlled within and/or
to desired states. The power electronics of control system 200 that
control the motor-to-motor functions may be brought online during
the neutral/startup mode.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 4 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22, output
coupled clutch 150, and output brake 170 are engaged when
transmission 30 is configured in the neutral/startup mode.
According to an exemplary embodiment, engaging neutral clutch 22,
output brake 170, and output coupled clutch 150 selectively limits
the rotational movement of portions of both power split 110 and
output planetary 120. By way of example, engaging output brake 170
may inhibit the rotational movement of ring gear 124, gear 192,
gear 194, and gear 196 such that each remains rotationally fixed.
Engaging output coupled clutch 150 may inhibit rotational movement
of jack shaft 34 such that jack shaft 34 remains rotationally fixed
(e.g., since gear 196 is fixed and output coupled clutch 150 is
engaged, etc.). With jack shaft 34 rotationally fixed, gear set 180
and carrier 118 become rotationally fixed, thereby isolating output
shaft 32 from engine 20, first electromagnetic device 40, and
second electromagnetic device 50 in the neutral/startup mode. Such
isolation may substantially eliminate a forward lurch potential of
the vehicle during startup (e.g., transmission 30 does not provide
an output torque to tires 62 and/or tires 72, etc.). Alternatively,
as shown in FIG. 5, output coupled clutch 150 may be disengaged
(e.g., before startup, during startup, after startup, etc.).
However, disengaging output coupled clutch 150 may not prevent
rotation of the jack shaft 34 and thereby output shaft 32.
[0060] According to an exemplary embodiment, an energy flow path in
the neutral/startup mode includes: first electromagnetic device 40
providing a rotational mechanical energy input to first rotatable
portion 112 through neutral clutch 22 that is received by the
connecting members 116; connecting members 116 rotating about
central axes thereof (e.g., axes 117) (e.g., connecting members 116
may not rotate about first rotatable portion 112 because carrier
118 may be rotationally fixed, etc.); the connecting members 116
conveying the rotational mechanical energy to second rotatable
portion 114; second rotatable portion 114 transferring the
rotational mechanical energy to the engine 20 through the
connecting shaft 36 such that the rotational mechanical energy
provided by first electromagnetic device 40 starts engine 20.
[0061] An alternative energy flow path in the neutral/startup mode
may include starting engine 20 with a traditional starting
mechanism, engine 20 providing a rotational mechanical energy input
to second rotatable portion 114 that is received by connecting
members 116; connecting members 116 rotating about central axes
thereof (e.g., axes 117) (e.g., connecting members may or may not
rotate about first rotatable portion 112 because carrier 118 may or
may not be rotationally fixed, etc.); connecting members 116
conveying the rotational mechanical energy to first rotatable
portion 112; and first rotatable portion 112 conveying the
rotational mechanical energy to first electromagnetic device 40
through neutral clutch 22 to bring first electromagnetic device 40
up to the threshold for establishing a requisite DC bus voltage and
controlling first electromagnetic device 40 and/or second
electromagnetic device 50 in a desired state. By way of example,
the neutral/startup mode may be used to start engine 20, establish
a requisite DC bus voltage, or otherwise export power without
relying on controller 210 to engage first electromagnetic device 40
and/or second electromagnetic device 50. Transmission 30 may
provide increased export power potential relative to traditional
transmission systems.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 6, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into a low range mode of operation such that
transmission 30 allows for a low output speed operation with a high
output torque (e.g., in a forward direction of travel, etc.). The
low range mode increases a vehicle's gradability (e.g., facilitates
the vehicle maintaining speed on a grade, etc.). In one embodiment,
engine 20 provides a rotational mechanical energy input to
transmission 30 such that first electromagnetic device 40 generates
electrical power and second electromagnetic device 50 uses the
generated electrical power to provide a rotational mechanical
energy output. As such, at least one of engine 20 and second
electromagnetic device 50 provide a rotational mechanical energy
input to drive at least one of tires 62 and tires 72. In an
alternative embodiment, first electromagnetic device 40 operates as
a motor and second electromagnetic device 50 operates as a
generator when transmission 30 is configured in the low range
forward mode. In still another alternative embodiment, both first
electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50
operate as a generator in the low range forward mode. In yet
another embodiment, transmission 30 is not selectively
reconfigurable into the low range mode of operation. In one such
embodiment, transmission 30 does not include jack shaft 34, does
not include gear set 190 (e.g., gear 192, gear 194, gear 196,
etc.), and does not include output coupled clutch 150. Transmission
30 may additionally or alternatively not include gear set 180 in
embodiments where transmission 30 is not selectively reconfigurable
into the low range mode of operation.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 6 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22 and output
coupled clutch 150 are engaged when transmission 30 is configured
in the low range mode. As shown in FIG. 6, output coupled clutch
150 couples gear set 190 to jack shaft 34. Accordingly, when engine
20 provides a rotational mechanical energy input to transmission
30, at least one of engine 20 and second electromagnetic device 50
drive output shaft 32 through the interaction of connecting shaft
36 and jack shaft 34 with power split 110, respectively. According
to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6, an energy flow path
for the low range includes: engine 20 providing a rotational
mechanical energy input to connecting shaft 36; connecting shaft 36
conveying the rotational mechanical energy to second rotatable
portion 114; second rotatable portion 114 causing connecting
members 116 to rotate about central axes thereof (e.g., axes 117),
as well as about first rotatable portion 112 such that carrier 118
and output shaft 32 rotate; and the rotation of connecting members
116 about a central axis causing a rotation of first rotatable
portion 112, thus driving first electromagnetic device 40 through
neutral clutch 22 such that first electromagnetic device 40
operates as a generator (e.g., generates electrical energy,
etc.).
[0064] Referring still to FIG. 6, the rotation of carrier 118
drives both carrier 128 and gear set 180. Carrier 128 drives the
plurality of planetary gears 126 to rotate about sun gear 122 and
about central axes thereof. In one embodiment, second
electromagnetic device 50 receives electrical energy generated by
first electromagnetic device 40. Accordingly, second
electromagnetic device 50 operates as a motor, providing a
rotational mechanical energy input to sun gear 122. The sun gear
122 conveys the rotational mechanical energy to the plurality of
planetary gears 126 such that each further rotates about the
central axis thereof. The plurality of planetary gears 126 drive
ring gear 124, and the rotation of ring gear 124 drives gear set
190. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6, gear
set 180 and gear set 190 transfer a torque to and from jack shaft
34 with output coupled clutch 150 engaged. As such, engine 20 and
second electromagnetic device 50 move a vehicle at a low speed with
a high output torque.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 7, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into a mid range mode of operation. In the mid range
mode of operation, transmission 30 may facilitate a mid range
output speed operation (e.g., in a forward direction of travel,
etc.). The speed range associated with the mid range mode of
operation may be larger than that of traditional transmissions
(i.e., transmission 30 may provide increased coverage in the mid
range, etc.). The mid range mode may improve low output speed
torque and high output speed power. In one embodiment, engine 20
provides a rotational mechanical energy input such that first
electromagnetic device 40 generates electrical power, and second
electromagnetic device 50 uses the generated electrical power to
provide a rotational mechanical energy output. Second
electromagnetic device 50 thereby provides a rotational mechanical
energy input to drive at least one of tires 62 and tires 72. In an
alternative embodiment, second electromagnetic device 50 operates
as a generator while first electromagnetic device 40 operates as a
motor when transmission 30 is configured in the mid range mode. In
still another alternative embodiment, both first electromagnetic
device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50 operate as a
generator in the mid range mode.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 7 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22 and output
brake 170 are engaged when transmission 30 is configured in the mid
range mode. As shown in FIG. 7, output brake 170 inhibits the
rotation of gear set 190 (e.g., gear 192, gear 194, gear 196,
etc.). Output brake 170 thereby rotationally fixes ring gear 124.
In one embodiment, engaging output brake 170 substantially
eliminates a power dip between output and input modes of
transmission 30. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in
FIG. 7, an energy flow path for the mid range forward mode
includes: engine 20 providing a rotational mechanical energy input
to connecting shaft 36 that is conveyed to second rotatable portion
114; second rotatable portion 114 driving connecting members 116 to
rotate about central axes thereof (e.g., axes 117), as well as
about first rotatable portion 112 such that both carrier 118 and
first rotatable portion 112 rotate; and the rotation of carrier 118
driving the output shaft 32.
[0067] With ring gear 124 fixed by output brake 170, second
electromagnetic device 50 may operate as a motor. In one
embodiment, second electromagnetic device 50 receives electrical
energy generated by first electromagnetic device 40. First
electromagnetic device 40 operates as a generator, removing a
rotational mechanical energy from first rotatable portion 112
through neutral clutch 22. The sun gear 122 conveys rotational
mechanical torque from the second electromagnetic device 50 to the
plurality of planetary gears 126 such that each further rotates
about sun gear 122 (e.g., at an increased rotational speed, etc.).
The rotation of the plurality of planetary gears 126 (e.g.,
effected by sun gear 122, etc.) drives carrier 128 and thereby
carrier 118. Carrier 118 drives output shaft 32 at a mid range
output speed and may thereby drive a vehicle at a mid range output
speed.
[0068] As shown in FIG. 8, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into a high range mode of operation such that
transmission 30 allows for a high output speed operation (e.g., in
a forward direction of travel, etc.). In one embodiment, engine 20
provides a rotational mechanical energy input such that second
electromagnetic device 50 generates electrical power while first
electromagnetic device 40 uses the generated electrical power to
provide a rotational mechanical energy output. As such, at least
one of engine 20 and first electromagnetic device 40 provide
rotational mechanical energy to drive at least one of tires 62 and
tires 72. In an alternative embodiment, first electromagnetic
device 40 operates as a generator and second electromagnetic device
50 operates as a motor when transmission 30 is configured in the
high range mode.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 8 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22 and input
coupled clutch 140 are engaged when transmission 30 is configured
in the high range mode. As shown in FIG. 8, the engagement of input
coupled clutch 140 with connecting shaft 36 rotationally couples
engine 20 and second electromagnetic device 50. By way of example,
engine 20 may provide a rotational mechanical energy input to
connecting shaft 36 such that second electromagnetic device 50
generates electrical energy. In one embodiment, first
electromagnetic device 40 receives the electrical energy generated
by second electromagnetic device 50. First electromagnetic device
40 operates as a motor, providing a rotational mechanical energy
input to first rotatable portion 112 through neutral clutch 22 that
drives connecting members 116 and carrier 118.
[0070] Referring still to FIG. 8, power from engine 20 is
transferred to second rotatable portion 114 and connecting members
116. The connecting members 116 are driven by at least one of
engine 20 (e.g., via second rotatable portion 114, etc.) and first
electromagnetic device 40 (e.g., via first rotatable portion 112,
etc.). Carrier 118 rotates, which drives output shaft 32 such that
the rotational mechanical energy provided by engine 20 and first
electromagnetic device 40 drives a vehicle at a high range
speed.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 9, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into an intermediate shift mode of operation that
facilitates transitioning transmission 30 (i.e., shifting, changing
modes, etc.) between the mid range mode of operation and the high
range mode of operation. According to the embodiment shown in FIG.
9, neutral clutch 22, input coupled clutch 140, and output brake
170 are engaged when transmission 30 is selectively reconfigured
into the intermediate shift mode of operation. According to an
exemplary embodiment, the intermediate shift mode provides a smooth
and robust shifting strategy that functions reliably even in a wide
variety of operating conditions, when using various types of oil
for the components of transmission 30, and when experiencing valve
nonlinearities that may be present in one or more valves of
transmission 30. The intermediate shift mode may provide a zero
inertia shift through and across two or more overlapping ranges
(e.g., the mid range and the high range, etc.). According to the
exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-9, the intermediate shift
mode eliminates the need to simultaneously disengage output brake
170 and engage input coupled clutch 140 to shift from the mid range
mode to the high range mode, or vice versa. The intermediate shift
mode reduces jerking sensations associated with simultaneously
disengaging output brake 170 and engaging input coupled clutch 140
to shift from mid range to high range, providing a smoother
ride.
[0072] During operation, the intermediate shift mode may be used to
shift from mid range mode to high range mode or from high range
mode to mid range mode. In one embodiment, when shifting between
the mid range mode and the high range mode, both input coupled
clutch 140 and output brake 170 are engaged for a period of time
prior to disengaging input coupled clutch 140 or output brake 170.
Transmission 30 may be selectively reconfigured into the
intermediate shift mode in response to one or more inputs reaching
a predetermined threshold condition, the inputs including a
rotational speed of second electromagnetic device 50 and a
rotational speed of connecting shaft 36 and/or engine 20. One or
more sensors may be positioned to monitor the rotational speed of
at least one of engine 20, connecting shaft 36, a portion of second
electromagnetic device 50, or still another component. A controller
(e.g., controller 210, etc.) may reconfigure transmission 30 into
the intermediate shift mode in response to sensing signals provided
by the one or more sensors.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 10, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into a low speed reverse mode of operation. In one
embodiment, engine 20 provides a rotational mechanical energy input
to transmission 30 such that first electromagnetic device 40
generates electrical power and second electromagnetic device 50
uses the generated electrical power to provide a rotational
mechanical energy input to transmission 30. As such, at least one
of engine 20 and second electromagnetic device 50 provide
rotational mechanical energy to drive at least one of tires 62 and
tires 72 in a reverse direction (e.g., backwards, etc.). In an
alternative embodiment, first electromagnetic device 40 operates as
a motor and second electromagnetic device 50 operates as a
generator when transmission 30 is configured in the low range
reverse mode.
[0074] As shown in FIG. 10 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22 and
output coupled clutch 150 are engaged when transmission 30 is
configured in the low speed reverse mode. As shown in FIG. 10, the
low speed reverse mode is substantially similar to the low range
mode of FIG. 6 in that output coupled clutch 150 couples gear set
190 to output shaft 32. In the low speed reverse mode, second
electromagnetic device 50 may provide a rotational mechanical
energy input to transmission 30 in an opposite direction as
compared to the low range mode of FIG. 6.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 11, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into a mid speed reverse mode of operation such that
transmission 30 allows for a mid reverse output speed operation. In
one embodiment, engine 20 provides a rotational mechanical energy
input such that first electromagnetic device 40 generates
electrical power, and second electromagnetic device 50 uses the
generated electrical power to provide a rotational mechanical
energy input to transmission 30. As such, at least one of engine 20
and second electromagnetic device 50 provides a rotational
mechanical energy input to drive at least one of tires 62 and tires
72 in a reverse direction (e.g., backwards). In an alternative
embodiment, second electromagnetic device 50 operates as a
generator and first electromagnetic device 40 operates as a motor
when transmission 30 is configured in the mid speed reverse mode.
In still another alternative embodiment, both first electromagnetic
device 40 and second electromagnetic device 50 operate as a
generator in the mid speed reverse mode.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 11 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22 and
output brake 170 are engaged when transmission 30 is configured in
the mid speed reverse mode. As shown in FIG. 11, output brake 170
inhibits the rotation of gear set 190 (e.g., gear 192, gear 194,
gear 196, etc.). Output brake 170 thereby rotationally fixes ring
gear 124. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 11,
an energy flow path for the mid speed reverse mode includes: engine
20 providing a rotational mechanical energy input to connecting
shaft 36 that is conveyed to second rotatable portion 114; and
second rotatable portion 114 driving connecting members 116 to
rotate about central axes thereof (e.g., axes 117), as well as
about first rotatable portion 112 such that both carrier 118 and
first rotatable portion 112 rotate.
[0077] Referring still to FIG. 11, the rotation of carrier 118
drives carrier 128, which rotates the plurality of planetary gears
126 about central axes thereof, as well as about sun gear 122. With
ring gear 124 fixed by output brake 170, second electromagnetic
device 50 may operate as a motor. In one embodiment, second
electromagnetic device 50 receives electrical energy generated by
first electromagnetic device 40. Accordingly, first electromagnetic
device 40 operates as a generator, removing a rotational mechanical
energy from first rotatable portion 112 through neutral clutch 22.
Second electromagnetic device 50 receives electrical energy from
first electromagnetic device 40, applying a rotational mechanical
torque to sun gear 122. The sun gear 122 conveys the rotational
mechanical torque to the plurality of planetary gears 126 such that
each further rotates about sun gear 122 (e.g., at an increased
rotational speed, etc.). The rotation of the plurality of planetary
gears 126 (e.g., effected by sun gear 122, etc.) drives carrier 128
and thereby carrier 118. Carrier 118 drives output shaft 32 at a
mid reverse output speed and may thereby drive a vehicle at a mid
reverse output speed.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 12, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into a power generation mode such that rotation of
connecting shaft 36 rotates first electromagnetic device 40 and
second electromagnetic device 50 to generate electrical power. In
one embodiment, the electrical power is stored for future use. In
another embodiment, the electrical power is used to power internal
devices (e.g., control system 200, components of the vehicle, etc.)
and/or external devices. As shown in FIG. 12 and Table 1, neutral
clutch 22 and input coupled clutch 140 are engaged when
transmission 30 is configured in the power generation mode.
[0079] According to an exemplary embodiment, engine 20 provides a
rotational mechanical energy input to connecting shaft 36, which
drives both first electromagnetic device 40 and second
electromagnetic device 50. As shown in FIG. 12, second
electromagnetic device 50 is rotationally coupled to engine 20 via
the engagement of input coupled clutch 140 with connecting shaft 36
such that second electromagnetic device 50 generates electrical
power. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 12, an
energy flow path for the power generation mode includes: connecting
shaft 36 provides rotational mechanical energy to second rotatable
portion 114 of power split 110; second rotatable portion 114
conveys the rotational mechanical energy from connecting shaft 36
to connecting members 116; the connecting members 116 rotate about
central axes thereof (e.g., axes 117), thereby transferring
rotational mechanical energy to first rotatable portion 112; first
rotatable portion 112 provides the rotational mechanical energy
from engine 20 to first electromagnetic device 40 through the shaft
of first electromagnetic device 40 and neutral clutch 22 such that
first electromagnetic device 40 generates electrical power. In some
embodiments, a brake is applied to front axle 60 and/or rear axle
70 to prevent movement of the vehicle 10 in the power generation
mode.
[0080] According to an alternative embodiment, engine 20 does not
provide a rotational mechanical energy input to drive a vehicle. By
way of example, first electromagnetic device 40, second
electromagnetic device 50, and/or another device may store energy
during the above mentioned modes of operation. When sufficient
energy is stored (e.g., above a threshold level, etc.), at least
one of first electromagnetic device 40 and second electromagnetic
device 50 may provide a rotational mechanical energy output such
that the vehicle is driven without an input from engine 20 (e.g.,
an electric mode, etc.).
[0081] As shown in FIG. 13, transmission 30 is selectively
reconfigured into an electric PTO mode of operation such that first
electromagnetic device 40 allows for operation of the PTO output 80
coupled to the secondary output clutch 42 without operation of
engine 20 or transmission 30. The electric PTO mode may be more
efficient than other modes of operation that drive the PTO outputs
80 through the jack shaft 34, as no energy is expended moving
components of engine 20 or transmission 30 in the electric PTO
mode. Further, without engine 20 and transmission 30 operating, the
vehicle may operate more quietly overall (e.g., without engine
noise, without noises generated by movement of gears in
transmission 30, etc.). In one embodiment, first electromagnetic
device uses electrical energy from an energy storage device (e.g.,
a battery, a capacitor, etc.) and provides a rotational mechanical
energy input to drive PTO output 80. In such embodiments, the
electric PTO mode facilitates driving the PTO output 80 without
consuming fuel (e.g., as operation of engine 20 is not
required).
[0082] As shown in FIG. 13 and Table 1, neutral clutch 22 is
disengaged and secondary output clutch 42 is engaged when
transmission 30 is configured in the electric PTO mode. As shown in
FIG. 13, secondary output clutch 42 couples the shaft of first
electromagnetic device 40 to PTO output 80 when engaged. With
neutral clutch 22 disengaged, first electromagnetic device 40 and
PTO output 80 are rotationally decoupled from transmission 30 and
thereby may rotate independently of both engine 20 and transmission
30. Accordingly, with only secondary output clutch 42 engaged,
energy flows directly from first electromagnetic device 40 to PTO
output 80.
[0083] Although the figures may show a specific order of method
steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted.
Also two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with
partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and
hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations
are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software
implementations could be accomplished with standard programming
techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the
various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and
decision steps.
[0084] As utilized herein, the terms "approximately," "about,"
"substantially," and similar terms are intended to have a broad
meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of
ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this
disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in
the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to
allow a description of certain features described and claimed
without restricting the scope of these features to the precise
numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be
interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential
modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and
claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as
recited in the appended claims.
[0085] It should be noted that the terms "exemplary" and "example"
as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to
indicate that such embodiments are possible examples,
representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and
such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are
necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).
[0086] The terms "coupled," "connected," and the like, as used
herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to
one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent, etc.)
or moveable (e.g., removable, releasable, etc.). Such joining may
be achieved with the two members or the two members and any
additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single
unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two
members and any additional intermediate members being attached to
one another.
[0087] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., "top,"
"bottom," "above," "below," "between," etc.) are merely used to
describe the orientation of various elements in the figures. It
should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ
according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations
are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.
[0088] Also, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not
in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect
a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the
elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at
least one of X, Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is
otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey
that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y
and Z, or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus,
such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that
certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y,
and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise
indicated.
[0089] It is important to note that the construction and
arrangement of the systems as shown in the exemplary embodiments is
illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present
disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art
who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many
modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions,
structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values
of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,
orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel
teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For
example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of
multiple parts or elements. It should be noted that the elements
and/or assemblies of the components described herein may be
constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide
sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of
colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such
modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the
present inventions. Other substitutions, modifications, changes,
and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and
arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments
without departing from scope of the present disclosure or from the
spirit of the appended claims.
* * * * *